Add late-season colour to your garden with striking clusters of dark rose-pink, lily-like flowers held aloft on upright stems. Each bloom measures 6-8cm (3in) across, with elegant, wavy, reflexed petals and delicate stamens that add texture and movement. These autumn-flowering bulbs reach around 50cm (20in) in height and are especially effective in well-drained soil with full sun, where they can truly shine without competition from neighbouring plants.
Nerine bowdenii ‘Isabel’ brings vibrant, late season cheer, standing out against autumn foliage and brightening the garden as other summer flowers fade. Its long-lasting, upright stems make it excellent for cutting, while the elegant flowers create striking focal points. Plant bulbs with the neck exposed, whether in borders or containers with well-drained compost, to encourage reliable flowering. Grouping them in clumps enhances impact, though they may take a couple of seasons to reach their full display.
How to care for Nerine Isabel:
Plant bulbs shallowly in well-drained soil, leaving the neck just above the surface, spacing 10-15cm (4-6in) apart. Choose a sunny, sheltered position where they won’t be shaded or crowded. They perform best in dense clumps, so avoid disturbing the roots once planted, and only lift and divide when the clump becomes overcrowded.
Mulch lightly to conserve moisture but keep the necks clear, and water sparingly during the growing season—overwatering can rot the bulbs. After flowering, allow the foliage to die back naturally to feed the bulbs for next year’s blooms.
Protect the crown from hard frosts with a generous layer of dry mulch after flowering, or overwinter potted plants in an unheated greenhouse in colder regions.